Encampment WyomingATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Encampment, Wyoming.
1. Grand Encampment Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Grand Encampment Museum houses over a dozen historical buildings filled with artifacts representing the valley's timber, mining, and agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore the 1890s to 1920s turn-of-the-century 18-building exhibition, complete with an areal tramway showing the movement of copper and homestead cabins furnished with original-owner possessions. The museum offers guided and mobile tours, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the rich history of the area.
2. Battle Pass Scenic Byway
STUNNING MOUNTAIN DRIVE
Battle Pass Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and surrounding wilderness areas. In the fall, this scenic drive showcases golden aspens, Battle Lake, and the historic Battle Pass ghost town. The byway serves as a gateway to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities in the Medicine Bow National Forest.
3. Green Mountain Falls Hiking Trail
WILDERNESS ADVENTURE PATH
Green Mountain Falls Hiking Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts access to the pristine wilderness of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The trail features expansive vistas, rugged terrain, and opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Hikers can enjoy varied difficulty levels suitable for different experience levels while taking in the natural beauty of southern Wyoming.
4. Continental Divide Trail
EPIC MOUNTAIN ROUTE
The Continental Divide Trail passes through Encampment with over 45 miles of this epic route traversing the surrounding mountains and forest. Encampment is considered a gateway city to this renowned trail, providing hikers with access to some of the most beautiful wilderness areas in North America. The trail offers challenging terrain and rewarding views for outdoor adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience.
5. Grandview Park
COMMUNITY OUTDOOR SPACE
Grandview Park serves as a central recreational area for residents and visitors in Encampment. The park offers a peaceful setting for picnics, community gatherings, and outdoor relaxation with views of the surrounding landscape. It provides amenities for families and individuals looking to enjoy the fresh mountain air in a maintained outdoor space.
6. A Bar A Ranch
HISTORIC GUEST RANCH
A Bar A Ranch is one of the oldest and most respected guest ranches in Wyoming, offering authentic western experiences near Encampment. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, fishing in private waters, hiking trails, and luxurious accommodations surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. The ranch combines outdoor adventure with western hospitality in a setting that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
7. Encampment River
PREMIER FISHING WATERS
The Encampment River flows through the valley, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and rafting. The river is known for its clear waters and abundant trout, making it a favorite destination for anglers of all skill levels. Its scenic corridor offers wildlife viewing opportunities and peaceful settings for water recreation throughout the warmer months.
8. Shed Studio
FIBER ARTS EDUCATION
Shed Studio houses the Academy of Spinster's, a learning institution dedicated to the fiber arts in Encampment. Visitors can learn traditional skills including carding, spinning on wheels and spindles, fleece weaving, triangle loom weaving, and natural dyeing techniques. The studio offers onsite lodging for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in fiber arts education during their stay.
9. Fire Lookout Tower
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
The 65-foot Fire Lookout Tower at the Grand Encampment Museum offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Climbing to the top rewards guests with one of the best vantage points in the area to appreciate the natural beauty of southern Wyoming. The tower is available for sunrise and sunset photo shoots for an additional fee, providing unique photography opportunities.
10. Encampment Farmer's Market
LOCAL PRODUCE SHOWCASE
Encampment Farmer's Market brings together local producers offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisanal foods. Visitors can experience the agricultural bounty of the region while connecting with local farmers and artisans. The market provides a glimpse into the community's sustainable food culture and serves as a social gathering spot for residents and tourists alike.
11. Medicine Bow National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS PLAYGROUND
Medicine Bow National Forest surrounds Encampment, offering over a million acres of public land for recreation and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore dense forests, alpine lakes, mountain meadows, and rugged peaks through an extensive network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest provides seasonal opportunities ranging from summer camping to winter sports, making it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
12. Sierra Madre Mountains
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN RANGE
The Sierra Madre Mountains form a dramatic backdrop to Encampment, defining the landscape and outdoor recreational opportunities. These mountains feature numerous trails, fishing spots, wildlife viewing areas, and scenic vistas accessible from town. Their rugged beauty attracts photographers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic Wyoming wilderness experiences.
13. Saratoga Hot Springs Resort
NATURAL MINERAL POOLS
Saratoga Hot Springs Resort, located near Encampment, features natural hot mineral springs that have been drawing visitors for generations. The resort offers private and public pools filled with therapeutic waters, alongside comfortable accommodations, dining options, and a microbrewery. Visitors can relax in the healing waters while taking in views of the surrounding Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountains.
14. Brush Creek Ranch
LUXURY WESTERN EXPERIENCE
Brush Creek Ranch, located near Encampment, is an exclusive luxury ranch resort offering authentic western experiences combined with world-class amenities. Guests can participate in activities ranging from horseback riding and fly fishing to spa treatments and farm-to-table dining experiences. The ranch's expansive property showcases the diverse Wyoming landscape, from rolling meadows to alpine forests, providing a scenic backdrop for a memorable vacation.
15. Carbon County Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Carbon County Museum in nearby Rawlins houses an extensive collection of artifacts representing the broader region's rich cultural and natural history. Exhibits showcase everything from prehistoric fossils to pioneer settlements, ranching heritage, and railroad development that shaped the area. The museum provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of southern Wyoming's diverse historical narrative and complements the more specialized exhibits at Encampment's local museum.